The sixth episode of “1883” sees the caravan led by Shea Brennan arrive at Doan’s Crossing, the last refuge before the group ventures out of Texas. Following the tragic death of her lover, Elsa is contemplating the meaning and futility of life. As Elsa’s spirits are broken, Shea uses her wisdom to guide the young woman beyond the river of her sorrows. Naturally, viewers have to wonder if Elsa is recovering from the loss of Ennis and what challenges the caravan faces at Doan’s Crossing. Here is an answer to all your questions about the end of episode 3 of ‘1883’! SPOILERS AHEAD!
1883 episode 6 recap
Episode 6, titled “Boring The Devil”, opens with the arrival of the wagon camp at Doan’s Crossing. The settlement resides on the edge of the Texas border, and beyond that lies Indian Territory. Therefore, the party must gather all the necessary resources from Doan’s Crossing. Elsa mourns the loss of Ennis and contemplates suicide. Shea talks to the young woman and reminds her that part of Ennis resides within her. The best way to honor Ennis’ memory is for Elsa to continue exploring life. Thus, Elsa refrains from shooting herself.
Later, Margaret and Elsa are heading to the market and Elsa confronts a local man. She threatens to shoot him until James intervenes. Elsa returns to tend the herd and meets Colton, a young cowboy hired by Shea to replace Ennis. Elsa acts cold towards Colton and refuses to show up. At the market, Margaret meets a local shopkeeper named Carolyn, and the two share a few drinks. James and Shea study the nearby river and come up with a plan to cross it.
Elsewhere, Thomas tries to hire a cook and has to deal with the latter’s many demands. Thomas reluctantly agrees and the caravan finally has a cook. Later, Thomas buys Noemi a present and the two sleep together for the first time after confessing their feelings for each other. On returning to camp, a drunk Margaret expresses her regrets to James. The next day, campers must prepare for another difficult river crossing.
1883 Episode 6 Ending: Does Elsa Get Over Her Heartbreak?
The episode mainly focuses on Elsa dealing with the complicated feelings overflowing in her heart after the death of her lover, Ennis. Elsa’s situation is understandable as this is the first time she has lost a loved one. She faces the cruel realities of the world and must find answers on her own. Shea gives Elsa thoughtful ideas that help her work through some of her grief over Ennis’ death. Although Shea’s words are powerful, they only stop Elsa from wallowing in pain outside. As she returns to her duties with the herd, Elsa still hurts inside. This leads Elsa down a self-destructive path, which is evident when she tries to cause strife in the market for no reason.
James recognizes that Elsa is not only suffering from Ennis’ death, but also from the murder of the bandit who shot Ennis. Elsa shot the man in cold blood three times, and such an act is bound to have a psychological effect on her. By revealing his time in the military, James builds a bridge for Elsa to overcome her guilt for killing the bandit and being the cause of Ennis’ death. In the end, Elsa makes peace with Ennis’ death. In the final moments of the episode, she introduces herself to Colton and becomes the usual cheerful self again. She thanks Shea for helping her and prepares to cross the river, beginning a new chapter in her life.
Does Margaret forgive James?
In the episode, Margaret finally finds an outlet for her emotions after having a few drinks with Carolyn. In her drunken state, Margaret finally finds the courage to reveal how she really feels about life on the road her husband has chosen for their family. Margaret laments that she constantly has to travel and cannot meet new people. Also, she’s angry that James promised her a life in heaven, but all they’ve been through on the road is hardship. From Margaret’s words, it’s clear that she longs for stability in life, and you can’t find that in the American West. Therefore, she is angry with James.
However, when the campers prepare to cross the river, James insists he drive the wagon while Margaret crosses the river on horseback. The couple argue again, but James reminds Margaret that he cannot lose her. James’ confession is enough for Margaret to forgive him. The couple’s feud underscores the mutual understanding and respect that their relationship is built on. With such a strong foundation for their marriage, it’s hard to imagine anything stopping the Duttons from achieving their ideal life.
Read more: 1883 episode 5 recap and ending, explained
